How do I clean my brushes and rollers after painting?Updated 4 months ago
Cleaning your brushes and rollers properly is important for keeping them in great shape while also looking after the environment. Here’s a simple guide to help you clean up after painting.
1. Clean up quickly
It’s always best to clean your brushes and rollers as soon as you finish painting. The longer paint sits on your tools, the harder it becomes to clean off, so try to clean them while the paint is still fresh. Here’s what to do:
- Brushes: Hold your brush under running water in a bucket and gently work it with your fingers to remove the paint. You can also use the container of water to rinse the brush if you’re worried about wasting water.
- Rollers: Rollers are a bit trickier, but you can also rinse them in a bucket of water. Press the roller against the side of the container to push out the paint or if
2. Add soap or methylated spirits for stubborn paint
If the paint’s not coming off easily, try using a little dishwashing liquid or a brush cleaner. Rub the soap into the bristles or roller cover, then rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
4. Dispose of wastewater responsibly
It’s important not to pour paint or dirty water down the drain, as this can harm the environment. Here’s what you can do:
- Let any dirty water sit in a bucket for a day or two so the paint settles at the bottom. You can then carefully pour the clean water down the drain (check your local rules first) or use it on the garden if allowed.
- For larger amounts of paint water, take it to a local waste disposal or recycling centre.
5. Let your brushes and rollers dry
Once your tools are clean, give them a good shake to remove excess water, then reshape the brush bristles. Lay the brush flat to dry or hang it up by the handle. For rollers, remove as much water as possible and leave them in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.
6. Recycle Leftover Paint
If you’ve got leftover paint, try to use it up or recycle it. Checkout Paintback to find your nearest paint recycling location.
Cleaning your brushes and rollers doesn’t have to be a hassle, and a little care goes a long way in keeping your tools and the environment in good shape! If you're unsure about local rules for disposing of paint, we recommend that you check in with your local council.